He started his photographic journey in the early 80s as an eager high school student ready to learn. He spent many many hours in the darkroom, contributing visuals to his school’s yearbook and newspaper projects. The school only had classes defined as Photography I and Photography II, but Patrick petitioned the school board and, along with his teacher, wrote syllabi so he could continue his photographic studies throughout his high school years. He took more photography classes in college, but his father's guidance and the perceived reality of work led him into Business Communications as a vocation. But he never put down his camera.

In fact, it became increasingly helpful over the years as a supplement to his work in the world of Marketing Communications and Events.

Several years ago, while shooting bees and birds at Jarboe Park in Neptune Beach, Patrick was approached by BPC member, Becky DeSantis, who suggested he come to a meeting to check things out. As often happens, life got in the way and it didn’t happen. Then, just a few months ago, Becky approached him in the camera department at Best Buy, and again asked him to stop by for a meeting. This time, something clicked (maybe a shutter), and Patrick attended his first BPC meeting.

He was immediately impressed by several things about the club. First, the organization. They take it seriously, but not so seriously as to not have fun. The meetings have a purpose, an agenda, and a plan! And the club sticks to them!

Although he’s been a Nikon person his entire life, he recognizes that there are amazing cameras from Canon, Olympus, Sony, and more. The camera is just a tool!

A couple of years ago, Patrick switched from the “old” F Mount Nikons to the new mirrorless Z mount. For him, it has been an exceptional improvement for his workflow and enjoyment of the process.

Patrick was born and raised in Florida, but has lived, worked, and played in Ohio, Texas, Costa Rica, London, and New York City, before returning to Florida.

Patrick owns a boutique marketing firm. He also owns a salon that caters to pampered pooches in Jacksonville Beach called Bath House Pet Grooming and Spa. They often feature photos of their special customers as “dog of the day", and Patrick takes some of those pictures.

He says he’s quite happy to have been introduced to such a supportive, friendly group of avid photography enthusiasts. They challenge his creativity in a remarkably positive way, helping to stretch his boundaries and improve his skills (and perhaps dusting off some skills he hasn't used for some years). Lifelong learning. It’s what makes it all worthwhile.

Patrick lives in Jacksonville with his husband of 27 years, Todd. They have a son, Cameron, who lives in Atlanta and is a phenomenal opera singer (with a Masters in Music Performance from Indiana University and a Bachelor’s Degree from FSU).